Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $83,150 | |
| Alaska | $80,800 | |
| Oregon | $80,470 | |
| Massachusetts | $80,220 | |
| Rhode Island | $80,090 | |
| California | $79,750 | |
| New Hampshire | $77,110 | |
| Arizona | $77,070 | |
| National Median | $64,400 |
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The highest sticker pay isn't always where licensed practical nurses keep the most. See Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse
Licensed practical nurses provide basic nursing care — monitoring patients, giving injections, and recording vital signs — under the direction of RNs and physicians.
Meet the education requirement
Most licensed practical nurses enter the field with postsecondary certificate. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the NCLEX-PN license
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $49,740 and rises toward $83,440 with experience.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) salary: common questions
How much does a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) make an hour?
The median hourly wage for licensed practical nurses is $30.96, which works out to about $64,400 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays licensed practical nurses the most?
Washington has the highest median pay for licensed practical nurses at $83,150 per year — 29% above the national median of $64,400.
What is the salary range for licensed practical nurses?
Most licensed practical nurses earn between $49,740 and $83,440 per year. The middle 50% earn $59,000 to $76,030, with a median of $64,400.
Is becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 3% (as fast as average), and the role typically requires postsecondary certificate. With a median wage of $64,400 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.